Cellulose ethers are primarily used as stabilizers, viscosity agents and thickeners in food, pharmaceuticals, personal care, chemicals, textiles, construction, paper, and adhesives applications. Increasing construction spending particularly in emerging markets of Asia Pacific and Latin America is expected to drive the construction industry globally. Government initiatives to improve infrastructure in the U.S., Germany, UK, and Italy is expected to further drive construction industry growth. Global cellulose ethers market is expected to witness significant growth over the forecast period owing to its increasing demand in construction as thickeners, binders and water-retention agents. Increasing penetration of cellulose ethers in pharmaceuticals, paints and food applications is expected to have a positive impact on the global market. Cellulose ethers are gaining acceptance as modifiers in cosmetics and personal care products such as shampoos, body lotions and soaps. Increasing consumption of cosmetics and personal care products owing to rising income levels in emerging markets such as Brazil, China, India, Mexico and South Africa are expected to further drive the global market growth over the forecast period.

Cellulose ethers demand in North America is expected to primarily be driven by growth of construction and personal care industries. Europe is a major regional market in terms of consumption and production. Presence of major cellulose ether producers in the region can be attributed to growth of the market. Asia Pacific is expected to witness high growth rates over the forecast period. Increasing construction spending in China and India coupled with growing personal care, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals demand is expected to drive the market in the region over the next six years. Increasing cellulose ether production in China coupled with capacity expansions by existing producers in the region is expected to benefit the Asia Pacific market in terms of production.